2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (149 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 1370 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | HHR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
